Alternative to an Edson Wheel Cover???

Engines, Drive trains, Propellers, Steering, Ground Tackle and other mechanical system
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Mark K.
Posts: 60
Joined: Sun Jul 31, 2016 4:32 pm

Alternative to an Edson Wheel Cover???

Post by Mark K. »

I need to replace the leather cover on my 32" Edson steering wheel. Defender wants about $210 for the kit. That seems excessive for a strip of leather with a bunch of little holes in it. I see similar leather kits for automobile wheels for about 1/10th the cost. Has anyone found a replacement for the pricey Edson kit?

Thanks,
Mark K.
Freedom 35'

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rvivian
Posts: 210
Joined: Sun Feb 21, 2010 2:08 pm

Re: Alternative to an Edson Wheel Cover???

Post by rvivian »

While Freedoms came with the leather cover on an Edson wheel, I went about 20 years with a wheel covered with 1/8" cotton line half hitches.
Comfortable and non-slip.

Have a look at this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TOANhF7O8kc

But beware - wear gloves or suffer the blisters resulting from applying the half-hitches.
Heart's Desire
Freedom 30
Shelton, WA

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RadioZephyr
Posts: 259
Joined: Mon Jun 27, 2016 10:04 am
Location: Boston, MA

Re: Alternative to an Edson Wheel Cover???

Post by RadioZephyr »

I’ve done two now, a 32” and a 40”, both from kits made by a guy in Seattle. I think it was boatleather.com. A very satisfying experience, and a high quality product.

Probably not cheaper than Edson’s kit, but higher quality in my opinion.
Josh
Sunset Spy
F38, Hull #152
Boston, MA

Jefffriday
Posts: 11
Joined: Wed Oct 28, 2015 12:53 pm

Re: Alternative to an Edson Wheel Cover???

Post by Jefffriday »

I did mine about 4 years ago with bicycle handlebar tape. Buttjointed the two lengths with superglue (a bit under the joint as well) and glued the end. I like it. I used black and its nicely padded, no issues wet etc.

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Camino
Posts: 358
Joined: Fri Oct 28, 2016 4:51 pm
Location: Stockton, CA

Re: Alternative to an Edson Wheel Cover???

Post by Camino »

All good ideas here. I also used boat leather.Com for the F 35 P. 4 yrs ago. Maybe similar price to defender but kit had foam pad too. No issues so far
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Tom and Stephanie
Good Way II F 35 (P)
1999. Wing Keel 5’
3GM30F, 3-blade maxi prop
Emery Cove, CA

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